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description

Object description

Part of the Junior Rates' bunk space on board HMS SCEPTRE seen as she lays alongside at Devonport dockyard just prior to decommissioning and disposal. The claustrophobic nature of the submarine can be seen in the main sleeping area for Junior Rates which consists of bunks stacked three high, each just 1.5 feet high and with just a curtain for privacy. There were not enough bunks for all men, resulting in a hot bunking system, with two or even three men using the same bunk. When working six hours on, six hours off, those sleeping were woken by the person who was to replace them in the bunk. Now, with the small number of men working on board, each enjoys the luxury of his own bed.